From Dr Jane Clements
Sir, - Most of us who, over the past few weeks, have entered
churches, schools, or Christian institutions will have done so
without having to pass through airport-style security. This has not
been the case for members of the Jewish community in this country,
who have been living under increased security measures after recent
events in Paris. This is nothing new, however: visitors to Jewish
schools and synagogues in recent years have been somewhat shocked
to find themselves halted by security guards and having bags and
clothing searched.
Your report on Jewish fears for the future (News, 16 January),
highlighted two recent reports. Speaking last Sunday, the Home
Secretary, Theresa May, said that she had never thought to hear
that British Jews felt afraid in the UK. As a result of the most
recent tragedy, it seems that we are waking up to the fact that
anti-Semitism is alive and well in our society, and has never
really gone away.
As Christians, we have a responsibility to address this. This is
not just because the catalogue of Church-led anti-Judaism in
centuries past has enabled poisonous myths to develop in folk
memory. But also, in following the example of Christ, we are
required to reach out to the vulnerable in our society, recognising
the face of God in each individual and meeting needs without
judgement or prejudice.
Both Jews and Muslims feel very vulnerable just now. They need
help in educating the media, and others in influential positions,
to promote a society less hampered by religious illiteracy. They
also need support in addressing racist overtones in public
discourse, which, alas, show little sign of abating.
Jane Clements
Director
Council of Christians and Jews
21 Godliman Street
London EC4V 5BD